How reliable are radiological examination results?
October 17, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Fanni Raab
Dear Radiologist,
My name is Marcus Ullmann and I have a question regarding the safety of radiological examination results. Recently, I had an MRI examination to investigate my persistent back pain. The results showed some abnormalities in my spine that could potentially be the cause of my symptoms.
Now I am concerned about how reliable this diagnosis really is. How reliable are radiological examinations such as MRIs? Are there possible sources of error that could lead to incorrect results? I am wondering if it would be wise to seek a second opinion to ensure that the diagnosis is correct.
Can radiological examination results vary depending on the device or technician? Are there specific factors that could influence the accuracy of the results, such as the patient's position during the examination or the quality of the images?
I am truly concerned about the safety and reliability of radiological diagnoses and would like to learn more about it in order to make informed health decisions. Are there ways to increase the safety of radiological examination results or minimize sources of error?
Thank you in advance for your response and help with my concerns.
Sincerely,
Marcus Ullmann
Dear Mr. Ullmann,
Thank you for your question regarding the safety of radiological examination results, especially in the context of MRI examinations. As a radiologist, I understand your concerns and would like to provide you with more information on the reliability of these diagnoses.
In general, MRI examinations are a very safe and reliable method for diagnosing various diseases or injuries in the body. They provide detailed images of internal structures and can thus provide very precise information about possible causes of symptoms. However, there are also some factors that can influence the accuracy of the results.
One way in which errors in the results could arise is the quality of the images. Inadequate image quality can lead to important details being overlooked or misinterpreted. Therefore, it is important that the MRI examination be performed by experienced technicians who are familiar with operating the device.
The position of the patient during the examination can also play a role. Incorrect positioning or movement of the patient during the scans can lead to distortions or artifacts in the images, which can make the diagnosis more difficult. Therefore, it is important for the patient to lie still and in the correct position during the examination.
Differences between different MRI machines can also occur. The quality of the images and the resolution can vary depending on the device, and thus also affect the accuracy of the diagnosis. It is therefore advisable for the MRI examination to be conducted in a qualified facility with modern equipment.
In terms of seeking a second opinion, it can be beneficial in some cases, especially when it comes to complex or serious diagnoses. An independent evaluation of the examination results by another radiologist can provide additional safety and minimize potential sources of error.
To increase the safety of radiological examination results, it is important that the examinations are conducted by trained personnel, high-quality equipment is used, and the patient is positioned correctly. If you still have concerns about your diagnosis, I recommend discussing a second opinion with your treating physician.
I hope that I have comprehensively answered your question and am available to provide further information if needed.
Best regards,
Fanni Raab
